Legislative UpdateHello neighbors, I am thankful that we made it out of the deep freeze and are heading towards warmer temperatures this weekend. I hope you can take this weekend as an opportunity to spend time outside in the beautiful Minnesota weather. It has been an unorthodox week at the Capitol. Late last week, the Supreme Court ruled that 68 members of the House need to be present in order for official business to be conducted. This means that the work we have been doing for the past 2 weeks has been stopped, and we are forced to resort to other means. Rather than holding floor sessions, committee meetings, and bill hearings, we are having informational meetings, press conferences, and drafting legislation. This decision was not what we had hoped, but it does not change the fact that Democrats are still missing while Republicans are here and working hard. I continue to field calls and talk to our communities about different needs. But the fact of the matter remains, I simply cannot offer bills or start legislation without an organized House. In good faith, I have reached out to colleagues across the aisle and asked for them to come to the table. In all of my time as your State Representative, I have worked out disagreements at the Capitol. The House Chamber is where we publicly debate policy and budgets. The refusal of the DFL to show up is not the correct path. The DFL members are adults and they need to perform the duties of their office. The Minnesota Association of Townships hosted a 'Day at the Capitol' event on Tuesday this week. It was a pleasure to meet with Mike and Linda Lundquist, two township officers from Millward, Minnesota. I also had the opportunity to meet with other groups, such as the Utilities Association, and hear about the challenges that residents are facing across the district.  Shoutout to our Aitkin Dance Team, who will be competing in sections this Saturday, February 1st. The meet begins at 11:45 am at Hawley High School. I wish our dancers success at this important meet, and safe travels there and back!  Also, shoutout to last month's 'Athlete of the Month' recipients. Congratulations to Ivan Petrich for his recognition in wrestling and Ainsley Kresha, my daughter, for her recognition in nordic skiing. Being a student athlete is no small task, congratulations to you both! BTW - by the way, stop at Block North Brew Pub this weekend to enjoy duck, walleye, shrimp, and more! Please Contact MePlease don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or comments on a state legislative matter, by phone at 651-296-4247 or by email at rep.ron.kresha@house.mn.gov  |